sports

Chicago Blackhawks Even Out Stanley Cup Finals

Series tied 2-2 heading back to Chicago

On Wednesday night, the Stanley Cup Finals went to overtime for the third time in five games—tying a record for second place in OT games in Stanley Cup Finals histor—when the Chicago Blackhawks beat the Boston Bruins in game four of what's already been a compelling series.

The instant classic game one was incredible and set the tone for two teams that have both shown a willingness to fight for every scrap. Chicago needed three extra periods to get it done, but winning at home was expected. Chicago did, after all, finish the regular season with the best record, thus earning home ice advantage in the Finals. But game 2 went to overtime as well and, despite the home ice, Boston stole the game, negating Chicago's raucous crowd.

Boston pressed their momentum by capturing game 3 in what was a disappointing letdown compared to the thrills of games one and two. With a two-nil victory, it seemed as though Boston had solved the problem of Chicago's defense, while cementing Tuukka Rask's reputation as a goalie destined for greatness.

The claim almost immediately became moot, as Rask allowed five goals in the three regulation periods and the Blackhawks crashed into their latest victory with a goal by Brent Seabrook just under 10 minutes into the extra time. Rask will remain one of the top names in the game and one loss won't tarnish his record too much, but his teammate Jarmoir Jagr will surely attest to the need for not only winning but continued winning.

The series now heads back to Chicago for game 5 on Saturday night, which can be seen on NBC at 6 p.m. MST.